Pargasite
A variety of Pargasite Root Name Group
What is Pargasite?
Named after the locality of Pargas, Finland, where the material was first mined, pargasite is usually dark and opaque, although some varieties can be bright and transparent. The green variety with a vibrant sheen is particularly valued by collectors. Its name refers to the individual mineral, as well as the group of pargasite-related minerals.
Uses & Applications
Pargasite is quite attractive in its natural crystalline form, often sold as a decorative object without much cutting and processing. Alternatively, individual crystals can be cut into faceted shapes and used to make unique and highly individual jewelry items.
Healing Properties
Its association with the heart chakra means pargasite may remove negative thoughts and emotions and encourage you to embrace your more loving side. It's said to increase divination and spiritual growth by stimulating spiritual truth and enlightenment. Pargasite may aid recovery from digestive and respiratory disorders and diminish the effects of anxiety.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.613-1.663
- Birefringence
- 0.020-0.024
- Pleochroism
- Orange/brown stones - distinct: colorless to yellow, light brown, brown
- Green stones - distinct: greenish-yellow, emerald-green, greenish-blue
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Pargasite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Pargasite Localities Map
See where Pargasite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Light-brown, brown, greenish-brown to dark green, black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 6
- Density
- 3.04 - 3.17 g/cm³
- Streak
- Pale grey-green to brownish-green
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Monoclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- {Na}{Ca2}{Mg4Al}(Al2Si6O22)(OH)2
- Elements
- Al, Ca, H, Mg, Na, O, Si
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Pargasite FAQs
How do I identify Pargasite?
Pargasite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Light-brown color, Vitreous luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Pargasite?
Pargasite typically appears in Light-brown, brown, greenish-brown to dark green, black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Pargasite?
Pargasite has a hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.